How to Fix Discoloration on Windows

Let plenty of light in with crisp, clean windows.

Over time moisture, hard-water runoff, dirt accumulation, pollution and exposure to the elements leads to mineral stains, fogginess and general discoloration of window panes. While regular cleaning and maintenance helps prevent this issue, you'll have to roll up your sleeves and get a little dirty to treat windows that have become discolored. You can salvage discolored antique windows with a cleaning and scouring process, allowing you to keep well-built antique windows in service or simply restore the clarity to any type of weathered panes.

1

Loosen dirt on the surface of the window with a hog-bristle brush and a solution of mild dish detergent and water. Work from left to right and top to bottom, getting into the corners of the window frame to free dirt that may lead to future discoloration. Rinse the glass with plain water.

2

Coat the panes of the window with a heavy spray of liquid glass cleaner.

3

Scrape away paint and other thick, dried-on debris with a safety razor. Make strokes in one direction down the pane of the glass.

4

Buff the surface of the window pane with a clean microfiber cloth.

5

Wipe each pane with single, top-to-bottom strokes using a squeegee and a solution of dish detergent and water. Clean the squeegee's blade with a rag after each stroke.

7

Add water to a powdered oxalic acid cleaner to create a paste. Apply the paste to a microfiber cloth. Rub the cloth into deep stains and discoloration to remove them. Rinse the glass with plain water and squeegee it once again.

8

Dry the window with a clean microfiber cloth. Buff away streaks on the glass with a clean, dry chamois.

About the Author

Dan Ketchum has been a professional writer since 2003, with work appearing online and offline in Word Riot, Bazooka Magazine, Anemone Sidecar, Trails and more. Dan's diverse professional background spans from costume design and screenwriting to mixology, manual labor and video game industry publicity.